Cambodia Drafts New Law to Tackle Scam Centres

Cambodia has drafted its first law to target online scam centres, marking a decisive move against a criminal industry that has long plagued the country and defrauded victims worldwide.

The bill, approved by the Cabinet and awaiting parliamentary debate, introduces severe penalties for those running technology fraud sites. Organisers could face up to ten years in prison and fines of up to $250,000. Cases involving human trafficking, violence or deaths carry far harsher sentences, with life imprisonment possible.

Information Minister Neth Pheaktra hailed the legislation as a turning point, saying Cambodia must no longer be seen as a safe haven for cyber criminals. Scam centres have not only siphoned billions from victims abroad but also trapped thousands of foreign workers, recruited under false pretences and forced to work in near‑slavery conditions.

Since last July, authorities claim to have raided 250 suspected sites, shutting down around 200. Nearly 700 alleged ringleaders and associates have been charged, while almost 10,000 exploited workers from 23 countries have been repatriated. Senior Minister Chhay Sinarith, who leads the Commission for Combating Online Scams, said fewer than 1,000 workers are still waiting to return home.

Scepticism remains, however. Past crackdowns have faltered, and experts warn that unless Cambodia dismantles the financial and protection networks underpinning the industry, operations may simply re‑emerge. Jacob Sims, a transnational crime specialist at Harvard University’s Asia Center, noted that previous efforts often left these networks intact, allowing scams to regroup quickly.

For now, Phnom Penh is keen to demonstrate resolve. The draft law signals a tougher stance, but whether it can truly dismantle one of Asia’s most entrenched criminal trades is the test that lies ahead.

-2026-03-15